Electrical or electronics technician - requirements

As an electrical or electronics technician, you’ll use your engineering know-how to design, build and maintain electrical and electronic components and systems. Learn more about a career in electrics and electronics, find out what it involves and what you’ll need to study and do to get a role.

Know what you'll need to land a job below.

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What qualifications do you need to be an electrical or electronics technician?

A degree in engineering will prove most useful. Subjects to consider include:

You could also do an advanced apprenticeship offered by various employers including the armed forces.

Please note this is a beta version. We'll continue to improve our suggestions here so that we show you the most relevant subjects.

Do you need a postgraduate qualification to be an electrical or electronics technician?

Although it’s not essential to do a postgraduate course, it can help develop your skills and increase your career opportunities.

Examples of taught MScs and research degrees at postgraduate level include:

  • Electrical and electronic engineering
  • Electrical materials science
  • Electrical power systems
  • Electrical vehicle technology
  • Engineering project management
  • Engineering smart systems
  • Industrial robotics
  • Sustainable electrical power

What skills do you need to be an electrical or electronics technician?

As an electrical or electronics technician, you’ll use your engineering knowledge and innovation to identify and solve problems in a variety of scenarios.

Hard skills usually include:
  • Aviation
  • CAD software
  • Construction
  • Electrical engineering
  • Electronics
  • Electrical systems
  • Electrical wiring
  • Machinery
  • Mathematics
  • Soldering
Soft skills include:
  • Communication
  • Customer service
  • Detail orientated
  • Enthusiasm
  • Management
  • Operations
  • Problem-solving
  • Teaching

Do you need work experience to be an electrical or electronics technician?

Although it’s not essential, it’s a good idea to have some work experience to show potential employers. Often electrical and electronics courses include practical placements giving you some on the job experience. You could also join a professional organisation like the Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET) as a student member and look for opportunities and networking events advertised on their work experience webpage.

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